Health Library

Discharge Instructions: Philadelphia Collar (Neck Collar)

Your doctor has prescribed a Philadelphia collar for you. This rigid neck collar will keep your neck and spine straight and help healing by supporting the neck bones. It has front and back pieces that attach with Velcro on the sides. Here are some home-care instructions for you to follow.

Activity guidelines

Arrange your household to keep the items you need within reach. Ask for help from others when you need it.

Remove electrical cords, throw rugs, and anything else that may cause you to fall.

Use a backpack, fanny pack, apron, or pockets to carry things so you can keep your hands free.

Use nonslip bath mats, grab bars, and a shower chair in your bathroom to help you keep your balance.

Use chairs with arms. This makes it easier for you to sit down and stand up.

Nap if you are tired, but don’t stay in bed all day.

Do not bend, twist, or reach until your doctor says it’s okay.

Do not lift anything heavier than 4 pounds or as instructed by your doctor.

Do not move your head up and down or side to side.

Do not drive until your doctor says it’s okay. This will most likely be when you can move your neck from side to side freely and without pain. Never drive while you are taking opioid pain medication.

Guidelines for collar use

If you receive two collars, wear one and keep the other one on hand in case one becomes damaged or you need to remove one for cleaning.

Inspect the skin under your collar daily. Look for redness, tenderness, or breaks in the skin.

Putting on the collar

The instructions below are for a one-piece collar that you can put on by yourself. If you’ve been given a two-piece collar or a collar that requires help to put on, ask your healthcare provider for written instructions.

Open up the collar by releasing the Velcro strap.

Face the mirror.

Place the indentation (V-notch) of the collar underneath your chin.

Wrap the collar around your neck.

Fasten the Velcro strap, making sure the collar fits snugly, but not too tightly.